30 Under 30: Meet Debbie Adigun
Debbie Adigun, blogger and co-founder of Black Travel Creators, talks to Abra Dunsby about networking and championing diversity in travel
From creating Wanderlust Calls, a blog that encourages people to enrich their lives through travel, to becoming co-founder of Black Travel Creators, a community-led platform for black travel bloggers, podcasters and YouTubers, Debbie Adigun has achieved a great deal in her 28 years.
Black Travel Creators was born in May 2018 after Adigun met Adebola Sowemimo, a fellow blogger, and the pair felt inspired to collaborate to help other black content creators succeed in the world of travel.
“We saw a need to create a community that comes together and supports one another within the travel industry,” explains Adigun.
The platform aims to work like an influencer agency, “connecting brands with black travel content creators and giving them the skills and knowledge they need to succeed”.
The organisation is now made up of a database of more than 200 creators, with an Instagram following of more than 10,000.
Adigun and Sowemimo also organise events and workshops for members. “Last year we had our first event to celebrate our birthday, which featured a networking session and two panel discussions. It was a very educational day and people got a lot out of it,” she says.
Since Covid-19, the events have moved into the virtual space, which is working well since members can join the discussions from around the world.
“We’re a global community so it’s been good to bring everyone together. More people can attend virtually than if we were hosting events in London, where we’re based,” Adigun says.
Turning the tide
While conversations around diversity in travel are beginning to become more widespread, Adigun believes “without a doubt” that the travel industry should be doing more to champion diversity and inclusion.
“Travel is meant to be about going to other countries and experiencing other cultures, but when you look at brands’ marketing, you can see that diversity is seriously lacking,” she says.
Companies that want to address diversity need to do so for the right reasons, adds Adigun. “Diversity needs to be more than ticking a box. A commitment to diversity needs to start from within – if your company isn’t diverse what you produce won’t be either, and you won’t be able to fully consider potential issues.
"It needs to be about more than looking good – you need to actually believe in it.”
Networking nous
Adigun is delighted to have been recognised by the TTG 30 Under 30 programme. “It’s been amazing to see that what we’re doing is valued and being acknowledged. I’m hoping to be able to make some good connections and learn a lot from the experience,” she says.
To other young hopefuls in travel, Adigun says that making connections offers the key to success.
“Get yourself out there, go to events and network – even if that is virtually now. Making connections opened up a lot of doors for me.”
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